Experience the River Danube 

Witness the wonders of medieval towns, flourishing wine-growing regions and historic capital cities that line the banks of the incredible Danube River. With an approximate length of 1,770 miles, the river flows through a variety of beautiful and renowned places. The Danube runs through eight different countries including Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary, as well as four historic capitals including Vienna and Budapest, before reaching the Black Sea. The Danube is the second largest river in Europe and offers a multitude of different wildlife, scenery, cultures and traditions to experience.

The city of Nuremberg is a popular place to sail through and stop for shore excursions when on a river cruise. As a city steeped in so much history, Nuremberg has many places of interest such as medieval castles, Gothic churches and numerous museums dedicated to the history of the city. The picturesque Main-Danube Canal, an important link between the River Rhine and the River Danube, runs through Nuremberg offering the perfect opportunity to experience the medieval timber-framed buildings in the old quarter, appreciate traditional handicrafts or even visit an art gallery.

As the Danube meanders through Europe and the cool breeze awakens your senses, the subtle changing landscape will enchant you as you sail past different towns and cities. The charming city of Vienna, with its selection of grandiose buildings, is one of the many highlights along the River Danube. As you stroll around this famous city, the distinct and delectable smell of its renowned coffee will greet you along with the sounds of famous composers such as Mozart, Beethoven and Strauss, who composed the famous waltz - The Blue Danube. Your river cruise may stop in Vienna giving you many opportunities to sample the array of delights that are on offer in this remarkable city.

When cruising along the Danube River you may witness the beautiful Wachau Valley. This breathtaking part of the Danube is around 20 miles long and stretches from the picturesque Austrian town of Melk to the equally striking town of Krems. The Wachau Valley is one of the most attractive sections of the River Danube and as you sail through it you will see castles, monasteries, ruins, vineyards and charming towns and villages. The town of Melk is home to the famous Melk Abbey, a dramatic Baroque style monastery that sits at the top of a hill overlooking the Danube. The town is rich in history, which is evident from sailing past and witnessing the various styles of architecture or simply exploring the town on foot.

As you continue to sail peacefully down the Danube you may arrive in Budapest - the capital of Hungary. The city lies at both sides of the Danube River with Buda on the west bank and Pest on the east. The river provides a peaceful atmosphere between two halves of a vibrant city where you can take a leisurely stroll along the embankment or enjoy a Danube River tour in a pleasure boat. The architectural look of Budapest will also enchant you, whether you tour the city by foot or simply sail past on a river cruise. Many European movements have left their marks on this city such as Art Nouveau, Baroque and Neoclassical, with numerous impressive buildings including the neo-Gothic Parliament building, which lies on the banks of the River Danube, and St Stephen's Basilica.